Gift Ideas for the Bridal Party

Handout

Handout

IRIS VAN RYNBACH

This time of year, arriving along with the roses, come armies of brides and grooms, and, right behind them, legions of tux- and dress-wearing groomsmen and bridesmaids. It's become a sweet tradition for the newlyweds to give their bridal parties a small gift in appreciation. Still, there's etiquette to wade through. Who gets one? What to choose? How much to spend? When to give the gifts?

John Green, owner and president of Lux, Bond & Green, has seen many wedding seasons come and go, and, of course, he's a pro at giving gifts. He was kind enough to answer some questions about the customs surrounding this tradition.

Q: What trends have you noticed?

A: Brides and grooms are getting more creative and personalizing the gifts instead of getting their entire wedding parties all the same gifts.

Q: What's popular?

A: For women, pearls of many colors, not just white, and hairpieces. Also diamond pendants with a theme such as our tiny treasures. For groomsmen's gifts, its still cuff links and money clips with personalization.

Q: Who buys the gifts, and when?

A: The bride and the groom usually make these decisions, and many times the mother of the bride helps. Usually they shop for these gifts about three months before the wedding and they spend between $50 to $200 on each gift.

Q: What is a typical gift for the parents of the bride and groom?

A: A pair of champagne glasses with a bottle to toast the couple and a beautiful frame for their children's wedding picture.

For bridesmaids, two months to three months before your wedding is the ideal time to purchase gifts. Think about how much your bridesmaids are spending on you and how much money you need to purchase a meaningful, lovely gift. Depending on circumstances, the range of $50 to $200 seems about right, though if you're planning a more casual wedding, consider crafting something handmade. It's common to give the gifts after the rehearsal dinner or the day of the wedding.

For parents: An engraved frame with wedding photo on one side and the invitation on the other side, a personalized handkerchief, wedding photo album, etched crystal glasses, or a personalized wooden cheese board.